Jennie Willis

Best thing about your course?

The course prepared me for my future career at Atos. It gave me excellent insight in how an organisation should attract and retain the best talent and look after its most valuable assets – it’s people. We were always encouraged to seek and embrace new ideas and initiatives to future proof a business. It really led you to think outside the box, not just accept the norm because it’s always been that way.

Any highlights?

I loved the support given by the academics. We went into lockdown just as I was starting my dissertation. It was a challenging time for everyone, but I still received excellent teaching and support.

I was awarded a Marjorie Hearnshaw scholarship while completing my BA, and a Sir Keith Skeoch postgraduate scholarship during my MA. It was such a help financially and I will be forever grateful for it. It made such a difference and was also a massive confidence boost. It inspired me to get the very best grade that I could.

What are you doing now?

I received a fantastic education at the University and am now a service delivery manager for Atos. The skills and knowledge I gained gave me the opportunity to work for a great employer and I couldn’t be happier. My team are great, and I have a brilliant manager who makes me feel valued.

I had planned to study a Doctorate of Business Administration at Teesside. Unfortunately, before I could start, I was diagnosed with cancer and am now happily in remission. Because of the qualifications I gained, I was able to work for a company with an excellent benefits package and a brilliant employee assistant program. That meant I was looked after and supported through my illness, treatment, recovery and return to work.

What next?

My ambitions at the moments are to enjoy life, be kind and grab opportunities as they come up.